The Cassini Scientist for a Day contest challenges students to become NASA scientists studying Saturn. Participants examine three possible observations taken by Cassini and choose the one they think will yield the best scientific results. This year's targets are Saturn and its moons Iapetus and Dione. After researching the three options, students write an essay under 500 words explaining their choice.

The contest is open to all students in the United States in grades 5-12. The essays will be divided into three groups for scoring: grades 5-6, 7-8 and 9-12. All submissions must be students' original work. Participants may enter as individuals or as part of a team of up to four students.

One of the biggest tree deaths in US history is occurring right now in the mesic forests of north Georgia. The majestic Eastern Hemlock (the Canadian Hemlock ,Tsuga canadensis, as well as the Carolina Hemlock Tsuga caroliniana) are succumbing to an invasive sap-sucking insect from east Asia. The invader is called the Woolly Adelgid (Adelgis tsugae). This tiny true bug resembles an aphid but is classified as a true bug and is capable of inflicting major damage to one of the dominant trees of high elevation and northern forests of eastern United States. The damage caused by this invasive species might rival the tree deaths caused by two past tree diseases: Dutch Elm disease and Chestnut blight. For more information please research or search information on invasive or non-native invasive species or check the National Park Service website at the following address:http://www.nps.gov/grsm/naturescience/hemlock-woolly-adelgid.htm

National Fossil Day at FSC

Saturday October 19, 2013

12:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Free fossil fun for the whole family!

National Fossil Day is intended to promote public awareness and stewardship of fossils, as well as to foster a greater appreciation of their scientific and educational value.

Lettuce Try It is a state-wide effort to get kids across Georgia to eat (and fall in love with!) fresh, local lettuce. Schools can sign up for free to receive resources like “How to Host a Lettuce Taste Test” and lesson plans involving lettuce for everyone from preschoolers to high schoolers! These resources will help you buy local lettuce and host successful Lettuce Try It activities at your school!

Oldest existing lizard-like fossil hints at scaly originsThe fossilized remains of a reptile closely related to lizards are the oldest yet to be discovered. Two new fossil jaws discovered in Vellberg, Germany provide the first direct evidence that the ancestors of lizards, snakes and tuatara (known collectively as lepidosaurs), were alive during the Middle Triassic period -- around 240 million years ago. >> more>> more articles

Molecule of the MonthDo you know this molecule?Get the answer in the next issue.
Hint: the simplest ketone, this molecule is a volatile, flammable, colorless liquid. Commonly used as a solvent; it is a component of nail polish removers
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